Daily Inspiration: On Memorial Day, remember the words of Jesus on peace

This feature, coordinated by The Post-Standard and InterFaith Works of Central New York, provides daily inspiration and reflection from religious and spiritual leaders and faithful followers in our community. Each Sunday, a new writer will offer his or her perspective in this space, followed by daily reflections Monday through Saturday on Page 2 of the CNY section. We welcome your feedback or involvement; email features@syracuse.com for more information.

Msgr. Ronald C. Bill

By Monsignor Ronald C. Bill
Contributing writer

Memorial Day dates back to 1868, when Gen. John Logan, Commander of the Army of the Republic, called for a day to honor fallen Union and Confederate soldiers. As on that occasion, this Memorial Day we pause to give thanks, grieve and consider the sacrifices that American soldiers have made for this country. The occasion invites us to ponder not only their sacrifices, but also those of their families who suffered, wept and wondered - was it all worth it?

Throughout our country and others in distant lands, there are memorials and walls filled with the names of deceased men and women of home towns and cities in America, from wars we want to forget. But have we forgotten? Perhaps the words of President Kennedy in his 1961 inaugural talk gives us new purpose and a hope for those who gave their lives for us: "Ask not what your country can do for you -- ask what you can do for your country."

During the conflict in Vietnam, I spent more than two years notifying parents and families of the deaths of their sons and daughters. From the moment they saw a chaplain in uniform at their door until the day of the funeral, I remained with them -- helping to console them and letting them know that we really cared. I cried with them, prayed with them and celebrated the funeral with them. Yes, I cried and finally understood what the words "ultimate sacrifice" really meant. I have nothing but thanks and praise for those serving in our military. I cherish the picture of my father in uniform, in a weathered old photograph. Whenever "Taps" is played, I think of all those young men and women at whose caskets I knelt and whispered, "You have not died in vain."

This year as we celebrate Memorial Day, the words of Jesus of Nazareth can again give new hope to our nation and a world that values peace more than war: "My peace I give you, my peace I leave with you." As our troops patrol the countries of the world, we ask God to protect them and return them soon to their families. But to those who rest with God, we sing, "Rest easy, sleep well my brothers and sisters. Know the line has held; your job is done. Rest easy, sleep well."

Others have taken up where you fell; the line has held. Peace. Peace, and farewell.